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Sun

When it comes to growing plants, sunlight plays a crucial role in several key factors. Here is a breakdown of the main ones:

Quantity (Intensity):

  • Amount of light: Plants require a specific amount of daily sunlight for optimal growth, depending on the species. This can range from full sun (8+ hours) to partial shade (4-6 hours), to full shade (less than 4 hours).
  • Seasonal variations: The amount of sunlight naturally fluctuates throughout the year. In summer, longer days provide more light, while winter days are shorter. Consider seasonal light changes when choosing plants and planning your garden layout.
  • Manipulation: You can manipulate light quantity for specific goals. Use reflective materials or grow lights to increase light, or shade cloths to decrease it.

Quality (Wavelength):

  • Color spectrum: Sunlight comprises a range of colors (wavelengths). Plants primarily absorb blue and red light for photosynthesis, while reflecting green, which is why they appear green.
  • Specific effects: Blue light influences vegetative growth (leaves, stems), while red light, especially in combination with blue, promotes flowering and fruiting. Understanding these effects can help you choose the right light types for specific plant needs.

Other factors to consider:

  • Daylight duration: Aside from total light hours, the distribution of light throughout the day can matter. Some plants prefer consistent light, while others benefit from morning or afternoon sun exposure.
  • Light intensity: Too much intense light can stress and damage plants, especially in hot climates. Consider providing afternoon shade or choosing heat-tolerant varieties.
  • Acclimatization: Gradually introduce seedlings to outdoor light to avoid scorching.

By understanding these sunlight factors, you can create an environment that optimizes growth and health for your chosen plants. Remember, research the specific needs of your plant varieties for the best results starting with the following sunny varieties:

  • Bergenia 'Ripple Effect' PPAF (20)ct Flat Bergenia 'Ripple Effect' PPAF (20)ct Flat

    Bergenia 'Ripple Effect' PPAF (20)ct Flat

    Bergenia 'Ripple Effect' PPAF (20)ct Flat Common Name: PigsqueakUnique even among Bergenia, 'Ripple Effect' is set to stand out in the landscape with a robust habit of massive 13" wide leaves. The glossy green leaves are circular with a serrated, wavy...

    $213.30
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  • Buddleia Blue Knight PPAF - MONARCH Collection 30ct Flat Buddleia Blue Knight PPAF - MONARCH Collection 30ct Flat

    Buddleia 'Blue Knight' PP28178 (30)ct Flat

    Buddleia 'Blue Knight' PP28178 (30)ct FlatMONARCH® CollectionCommon Name: Butterfly Bush, Summer Lilac The newest addition to the popular MONARCH® Butterfly Bush collection! ‘Blue Knight’ forms a dense clump of minty green leaves...

    $221.72
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  • Buddleia Dark Dynasty PPAF30ct Flat Buddleia Dark Dynasty PPAF30ct Flat

    Buddleia 'Dark Dynasty' PPAF(30)ct Flat

    Buddleia 'Dark Dynasty' PPAF(30)ct Flat Part of the MONARCH CollectionCompact, upright habit; keeps its shape as it ages Rich royal purple, fragrant flowersBlooms from late summer into early fallDark green foliageHeight: 3 feetZones 5-10 Twenty (30)...

    $221.72
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  • Buddleia 'Glass Slippers' PP27832 (30)ct Flat Buddleia 'Glass Slippers' PP27832 (30)ct Flat

    Buddleia 'Glass Slippers' PP27832 (30)ct Flat

    Buddleia 'Glass Slippers' PP27832 (30)ct FlatMONARCH® CollectionCommon Name: Butterfly Bush, Summer Lilac Like a cool drink of water on a hot summer day, the silvery green foliage and icy toned flowers of this new Buddleia from the Walters Gardens,...

    $221.72
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  • Buddleia Grand Cascade PP30868 30ct Flat Buddleia Grand Cascade PP30868 30ct Flat

    Buddleia 'Grand Cascade' PP30868 (30)ct Flat

    Buddleia 'Grand Cascade' PP30868 (30)ct FlatCascade CollectionCommon Name: Butterfly Bush Think all Buddleia look the same? Think again! Unlike the typical Butterfly Bush, the panicles on this flowering shrub cascade downward, similar to the look of...

    $221.72
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  • Buddleia Lilac Cascade PPAF 30ct Flat Buddleia Lilac Cascade PPAF 30ct Flat

    Buddleia 'Lilac Cascade' PPAF (30)ct Flat

    Buddleia 'Lilac Cascade' PPAF (30)ct FlatCascade CollectionCommon Name: Butterfly Bush, Summer Lilac Just like the others of the Cascade series, the habit of this Butterfly Bush has panicles that cascade downward like a waterfall. 12-18" huge, puffy...

    $221.72
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  • Buddleia Princess Pink PPAF 30ct Flat Buddleia Princess Pink PPAF 30ct Flat

    Buddleia 'Princess Pink' PP33665 (30)ct Flat

    Buddleia 'Princess Pink' PP33665 (30)ct FlatMONARCH® CollectionCommon Name: Butterfly Bush A fresh shade of light pink for the MONARCH® Collection! 8" long, light appleblossom pink flower panicles are produced above a round habit of dark green...

    $221.72
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  • Buddleia 'Violet Cascade' PP34298 (30)ct Flat Buddleia 'Violet Cascade' PP34298 (30)ct Flat

    Buddleia 'Violet Cascade' PP34298 (30)ct Flat

    Buddleia 'Violet Cascade' PP34298 (30)ct FlatCascade CollectionCommon Name: Butterfly Bush This plant is perfect for late season flower color! 'Violet Cascade' has the same cascading habit as the other members of the series, but with deep purple,...

    $221.72
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